Budva Wine

Budva offers a relaxed entry point into Montenegro’s growing wine culture. While the town itself isn’t a winemaking hub, it gives travelers a chance to taste the country’s most important grape varieties at local bars, restaurants, and wine shops. The standout wines here are made inland, especially in the Crmnica region, about an hour away by car.

Whether you’re sipping a glass of Vranac in the Old Town or planning a day trip to a hillside vineyard, Budva is a great place to start discovering Montenegrin Wine.

Montenegro’s native grape varieties form the backbone of local wine lists in Budva. While international grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are also grown, most bars and wineries highlight traditional regional wines.

Red Grapes

• Vranac – A bold, dark-skinned grape that produces full-bodied reds with blackberry, plum, and spice notes. It’s Montenegro’s flagship variety and widely available in Budva.
• Kratošija – Thought to be genetically related to Zinfandel, this indigenous red grape yields softer, fruit-forward wines often blended with Vranac.

White Grapes

• Krstač – A rare native white grape producing dry wines with citrus, mineral, and floral notes. Pairs well with seafood and lighter fare.
• International Varieties – You may also encounter Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Blanc, often blended with local grapes for balance and freshness.

To learn more about the regions, grapes, and top producers, see our Montenegro Wine guide.

After a day exploring the Old Town, a glass of local wine is the perfect way to wind down. Budva doesn’t have a large wine bar scene, but the few options that do exist are worth visiting—especially if you’re interested in tasting beyond the standard supermarket selection. Most bars feature Plantaže wines alongside occasional bottles from smaller Montenegrin producers.

Address: 7RHQ+79Q, Budva, Montenegro

Located just inside the Old Town walls, Casper is a relaxed spot known more for ambiance than a deep wine list. Still, they often have Vranac and Krstač by the glass, and their garden setting makes it a pleasant stop in the evening.

Budva has a limited number of specialty wine shops, but you’ll still find places to pick up local bottles—either for your trip or to take home. Expect to see a wide range of Plantaže wines, along with occasional selections from small Montenegrin wineries like Lipovac or Garnet. Some shops also carry rakija, olive oil, and other regional specialties.

While Budva itself has just one active vineyard—Bečićki Vinogradi—the most rewarding winery visits are inland, around Virpazar and Lake Skadar, roughly one hour east by car. This region is home to Montenegro’s densest cluster of family-run wineries, many of which offer tastings by appointment.

Address: 7VPJ+2G7, Bečići, Montenegro

Budva’s only nearby vineyard, located in the suburb of Bečići. It produces small batches of wine from coastal vines and sometimes offers informal tastings by prior arrangement.

Vinarija Mašanović

Address: Virpazar, 81305, Montenegro

Located near the Virpazar railway station, Masanovic produces both Vranac and Krstač. The family offers tastings with local snacks and rakija—ideal for a midday stop.

Address: Limljani, Montenegro

A scenic and informal stop with homegrown wines and warm hosts. Expect traditional winemaking methods and tastings that often feel more like a family lunch.

Address: Godinje village, Virpazar, 81305, Montenegro

Set in a stone house in one of the prettiest villages near Skadar Lake, Garnet produces small-batch wines with strong character. Try their Krstač or rosé.

Address: Donji Brceli bb, Virpazar 81305, Montenegro

This estate produces bold reds and fresh whites using both local and international grapes. Known for its panoramic vineyard views and solid hospitality.

Address: Mačuge bb, Mačuge, Montenegro

A small, traditional operation focusing on natural winemaking and limited-production bottles. Tastings here are often one-on-one with the winemaker.

Address: Gluhi Do, Virpazar 81305, Montenegro

An up-and-coming producer located in the hills above Virpazar. They offer structured tastings, including both wine and homemade rakija.